Little Bee by Chris Cleave: a review

I had no idea what this book was about before I began reading it. All the reviews, and even the book jacket, are deliberately vague. But I think there are some things I can tell you without spoiling the story. I can tell you that the story is about two woman, and that one of those women is a Nigerian refugee and the other is an English suburban mother. The first time they met something happened, and they have both been trying to escape this part of their past. The book begins two years later when they meet again.

This is an amazing novel. It was a pleasure to read every sentence, even though many things that happen in the story aren't pleasant. The characters are realistic and complex and admirable. Although it is fiction, many of the situations are based on reality. I wanted to just sit for hours and read until I finished. This is a definite two thumbs up.